What Medications Cause a False Positive Drug Test?

Several medications and foods can cause false positive screening results.

Known Cross-Reactions

  • Poppy seeds → opiates
  • Pseudoephedrine → amphetamines
  • Levofloxacin → cocaine
  • Sertraline → benzodiazepines
  • Dextromethorphan → PCP

Why They Happen

  • Immunoassays detect drug classes, not specific drugs
  • Similar molecular structure cross-reacts

How Resolved

  • GC-MS confirmation identifies exact substance
  • Inform lab if taking cross-reacting medication
Source: SAMHSA, NIDA, Mayo Clinic.

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